Energy balance
Successful long-term weight loss (≥10% loss maintained for ≥1 year) in the general population is primarily driven by absolute caloric restriction across all macronutrients and increased vigorous leisure-time physical activity, rather than extreme macronutrient partitioning.
To lose weight and keep it off, focus on eating slightly less total food (calories) from all sources (carbs, fats, proteins) and incorporate vigorous leisure activities (like brisk walking, jogging, or sports) into your routine. You do not need to follow extreme diets that eliminate entire food groups; consistency in modest caloric reduction and activity is the key.
Long-term weight losers consumed fewer calories (2072... kcal vs 2211... kcal; P < .001) and were more likely to report any vigorous leisure activity (24.5% vs 20.3%; P = .027)... Balanced calorie restriction from all macronutrients and physical activity are important behaviors for successful long-term weight loss in the general population.
Why this rating
Observational cross-sectional design using self-reported data limits causal inference, though the large nationally representative sample (n=8012) adds robustness.
Source
Physical Activity and Dietary Determinants of Weight Loss Success in the US General Population
Patrick B. Wilson · American Journal of Public Health · 2015
DOI 10.2105/ajph.2015.302956
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